Book Clubs
Jail Division III, HCSO, Tampa, Florida
Before I left one incarcerated woman asked me what was the one thing they should remember and I said, “You Matter!” Then she asked me to write that down on her paper putting her name before the statement. I thought maybe I should do that for myself as well, as it is a good reminder for anyone when they are feeling discouraged.
Bedford Hills Correctional Facility, New York
Rachael and I had the honor to spend the day with over a hundred incarcerated women. We met many incarcerated mothers and their adorable babies. Their babies stay in prison with them until they are 12- 18 months old. They have a garden and make their own baby food. New York has incredible programs for their women! This facility originated in 1892 as a reformatory for women.
Missouri Women’s Eastern Correctional Center
An incarcerated woman had just had her baby three days prior to me speaking. As I talked with her I was amazed at her strength. I can’t even imagine only getting to hold my baby for 24 hours.
Utah State Correctional Facility, Salt Lake City, Utah
Utah State Correctional Facility has around 5,900 incarcerated individuals. The women were so polite and all the people I met who work with these beautiful women cared so much about their futures. There are so many good people in this world.
Central California Women’s Facility
We hosted 28 mental health book clubs at the World’s Largest Women’s Prison!
South Dakota Women’s Prison
The women at the prison sang to us in their Native American language, Lakota, a beautiful song about suffering before we said our goodbyes!
Lane Murray Unit Gatesville Prison, Texas
The muriel on the wall was painted by an incarcerated woman. Just incredible!
Missouri Women’s Eastern Correctional Center
These women have such courage to work through their trauma, choices, and recovery! It reminds me that we can always begin once again!
Clark County Detention Center, Las Vegas
I have spoken 2 times to the women in the CCDC Women’s Soar Program which is to help incarcerated women rehabilitate and to set them up for success before they are released from prison.
North Las Vegas Corrections Jail
I typically only go to the larger prisons, but I always try to keep a prayer in my heart as to where I should go. I ended up at North Las Vegas Corrections Jail and had an incredible experience. It’s a good reminder that bigger is not always better, and sometimes the people we are to help are in the smallest of places, but they are just as important.
